On a final note to the moderators, perhaps you might consider starting a forum for “Commercial and Experts”. This would separate any marketing implications but allow access to the many experts, who, by their very need to keep employed, are otherwise excluded.
Hello David, I'd rather not deviate from the content of your excellent post re Morgan Plus Four ownership; however, did not want to ignore your question.
Historically, the commercial policy relates, primarily, to people who joined to hawk their wares and added little to the community and, in many cases, detracted from it. In latter years, it has been expanded to include people trying to drive traffic to sites that monetise content, be it directly or indirectly. As I am sure you can imagine, it needed to be a blanket coverall because otherwise, those who want to benefit from the community but detract from it are often the quickest to point to the lack of rules that stop them from doing what they are doing.
With all of that said, we take a pragmatic view on the above and my determining factor is always: does this aid the majority of the community and assist owners of Morgan vehicles. We have members who sell small parts that help other owners keep their cars on the road, we have artisans who mention and announce their products via TM and we have small businesses who offer advice and, at times and where appropriate, mention that they can help. As you can imagine, it is always a balance but TM generally operates in a genial and respectful manner and those who recognise they have a commercial product or service, which is relevant and could benefit the community, message me to discuss it. In doing so, more often than not, we agree something that benefits the community and allows the person to openly discuss what they have to offer.
As for a dedicated area, each time it has been mentioned to the forum, the general consensus, driven by the community is 'we would rather not.' With that said, people are also thoughtful and recognise that running TM, and keeping the lights on, isn't inexpensive; therefore, they appreciate that this may be an avenue that needs to be explored at some stage.
Hope that answers your question but feel free to PM directly if you have any others as I'd rather not detract from your interesting post on your CX ownership.
